Improve Your Communication

Every contact we make with others involves communications skills. Speaking, listening, our attitude, our speech patterns, the words we use, the tone of our voice, our body language, and even the silences, all play a part in how successful our communications are. Practice these time proven techniques to become the powerful communicator that you want to be.

1. Use "I" statements and take responsibility for what you say.

2. Keep the message and the language simple. Speak specifically and personally, and don't try to impress people with verbal gymnastics.

3. Hesitate before speaking or responding. Pause before speaking to be sure of what you want to communicate and be clear on what to say.

4. Body language needs to correspond with your verbal language and tone. Check the tone of your speech (with written communication also), your facial expressions, and mannerisms to be sure they correspond with your message.

5. Listen to the other person and don't respond until they have completed their thought. Don't try to formulate an answer while they're still speaking. Just listen, the answer will come.

6. You don't have to fill every pause. Understand that silence can sometimes play an important part in communication.

7. Hold back when you need to say something if you know that what you need to say might cause tension. But, make sure you ask for a time to share your thoughts when there is enough time to explore the subject in a safe and supportive manner.

8. Don't gloss over things or say something isn't important when it is. Mean what you say and say what you mean.

9. Communication is a two-way process. Share your thoughts and then listen to the other person's response before going on. Make the effort to listen and show your respect for the other person’s thoughts. We all need to be heard.

10. When you don't understand what someone has said, ask for clarification (remember to listen).

11. I don't assume anyone else knows what I'm thinking or feeling unless I tell them.

12. When you have said something out of line or something for which you am sorry, remember we all do that from time to time. Just remember to correct your misstatement, at your first opportunity, and make apologies and amends when necessary.

With good communication skills your relationships will improve, you will feel much less frustration with other people, more projects will get done correctly, you will feel heard and understood, and in charge of your life. Start today, see results by tomorrow.